Three members of a Launceston family have gone from casual weekly golf catch-ups to representing Tasmania at a major Trans-Tasman indoor golf championship
Brothers Brad and Jack Gibbins and their cousin Alec Roberts have qualified for the 2026 X-League Championship in Brisbane, where they will compete against eight of the best teams from Australia and New Zealand.
The trio’s journey began with a simple goal – finding more time to spend together and returning to a sport they all enjoyed.
Primary school teacher Brad Gibbins said their weekly gatherings quickly became more competitive than they expected.
“Most families catch up over dinner. Ours somehow ended up qualifying for an international golf championship,” Gibbins said.
“We didn’t expect to make it this far, but we’re excited, we’re competitive and we can’t wait to represent Tassie on the main stage.”
The Launceston team earned their place in the championship after competing through a season involving more than 1,700 players across Australia and New Zealand.
They will now face teams made up of everyday golfers from a range of backgrounds, including teachers, construction workers and a crocodile farm manager, in a two-day competition in Brisbane.
The X-League Championship is the culmination of an indoor golf competition, with players using simulator technology to compete regardless of weather, location or traditional barriers associated with the sport.
X-Golf Group X-League coordinator Nick Treble said the competition had become a way for everyday golfers to test themselves against the best teams from Australia and New Zealand.
“What makes X-League special is that every team has a unique story,” Treble said.
“Some are families, some are workmates and others are lifelong friends, but they’re all united by a love of the game.”
“Technology has helped make competition more accessible, but at its heart, X-League is about everyday people getting the chance to represent their community and compete among Australia and New Zealand’s best.”
The championship will be held at X-Golf South Bank in Brisbane on August 7 and 8.
The winning team will receive $20,000 worth of prizes, including a golf trip to Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links near Bridport.
